Ramallah, 25 March 2024 (TDI): The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) passed a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the month of Ramadan.
The resolution, which received 14 votes in favor, with the United States abstaining, emphasized the urgent need to expand the flow of aid into Gaza.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Expatriates of the State of Palestine welcomed the efforts of the UNSC regarding the ceasefire in Gaza.
The effort aims to protect civilians & the people of Palestine subjected to the deliberate genocide committed by Israel for 171 days.
The Ministry highlighted that the immediate adoption of a ceasefire resolution is a step in the right direction to completely and sustainably cease the Israeli aggression.
It is pertinent to note that the resolution also covers the withdrawal of the Israeli occupation forces from the Gaza Strip, the entry of aid as well and the forced return of the displaced to their areas and neighborhoods, despite the destruction and pain.
In this vein, the Palestinian Ministry called on the Security Council member states to fulfill their legal and historical responsibilities to enforce the resolution instantly.
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Furthermore, the Foreign Ministry of Palestine also pointed out the significance of boosting global efforts, including in the Security Council, for reaching a permanent and sustainable ceasefire that extends beyond the holy month of Ramadan and securing international aid’s entry into the Gaza Strip.
Otherwise, disaster and famine are imminent. To avoid that global efforts should be made to release prisoners, and detainees, and prevent forced displacement immediately.
In addition, Palestine also appreciated the Algeria-led initiative of the countries elected to the Security Council, consistent with international law in this regard. These countries include Ecuador, Guyana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, and Switzerland.
The initiative includes the submission of a draft resolution calling for a halt to the aggression and a ceasefire. Palestinian Ministry also lauded the persistent stance of the above-mentioned countries as well as Russia, France, and China.
Palestine has also emphasized in its statement that the global consensus to halt aggression against the Palestinian people, provide aid, and prevent forced displacement must be backed by tangible actions and consequences for Israel; the illegal occupying authority.
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This includes ending the war of extermination and addressing other war crimes and crimes against humanity. While today’s adoption of the draft resolution marks a positive step, further development is necessary for the UN Security Council to effectively fulfill its mandated role in maintaining international peace and security.